Why did Windows 10 crash? Learn more with a QR code

Since the release of build 14316 to Insiders, we’ve been trying to pinpoint some of its unannounced yet new aspects. Whether it be features or just random stuff, we’ve been on the hunt. Recently, we learned Microsoft added something new to the operating, but chances are most users of build 14316 won’t come across the issue unless they’re taking a look at their ex on Facebook or Twitter.

The new addition we’re talking about is a QR code on the blue screen of death — or the infamous BSOD for short. The BSOD is legendary for having always offered up obscure, completely unhelpful information when it appeared. In the past, this piece of information would fly by faster than the speed of light but these days, the Blue Screen of Death is a little bit more forgiving. We understand that the newly added QR code is to help troubleshoot the issue at hand — a smart move by Microsoft to give users a somewhat palpable feeling of control in a pretty terrible situation.

At the moment, we can’t tell how useful these QR codes actually are in the troubleshooting process. While we haven’t come across one ourselves, a forum user at BetaArchive did and decided to share an image of what he saw. Apart from the QR code, nothing much has changed but who would expect a lot of changes to be implemented on an error screen?

The question right now is whether or not this QR code will stay as a key feature of the BSOD, or is it just something Microsoft is testing for a limited time. There’s a high chance that most folks using Windows 10 have a smartphone but despite that, not everyone might understand how to use a QR code or what it is for. Because of this, we doubt the QR code feature will stick for the long haul. Let’s wait and see — and hopefully avoid future BSODs while we do.